Report links cancer cases near nuclear power plant

Concern over cases of thyroid cancer near the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant was raised on Monday. The study was published in the International Journal of Health Services.

The reaction among anti-nuclear activists -- Indian Point is an ongoing threat to public health.

The article alleges a link between the nuclear plant's release of radioactive iodine and thyroid cancer in surrounding counties.

"Public officials need to take the results seriously," Joseph Mangano of the Radiation and Public Health Project said.

The study's author says an analysis of Centers for Disease Control data shows the rate of thyroid cancer in Rockland County is 106 percent above the national average; 102 percent above in Putnam; 87 percent higher in Orange and 42 percent higher than average in Westchester.